Creamy Chia Pudding Parfait

Another blog for The Honest Company below, this time for everyone in the family. This is one of my favorite - super light and nutrient dense go-to snacks or breakfasts.

Why are pumpkin, flax, chia, hemp and so many other seeds in such high demand these days?

Seeds may just be the perfect food. Jam-packed with omega-3 fatty acids, they aid heart health by helping your body to reduce inflammation and lower triglycerides (the bad fats). At the same time, these seeds are generally high in fiber, which works to combat cholesterol and balance blood sugar. So — despite appearances — there’s really a lot of big benefits to these delicious little guys. Here is one of my favorite recipes that combines all pretty much all my favorite seeds. Enjoy as a healthy breakfast, or a snack on the go!

Use a fork to whisk together the first five ingredients (chia through maple syrup), whisk occasionally until the mixture is thick and well combined. It should resemble thick Greek yogurt; if it is too thick, add more almond milk a little at a time. Set aside and refrigerate.

While the chia sets (chia seeds expand when they are soaked in liquid), place a small skillet over medium heat. Add pumpkin seeds, hemp seeds, almonds and flaxseeds, stir frequently for 2-3 minutes while the nuts and seeds gently toast, accentuating their natural flavors. Add ghee and stir to coat, then add maple syrup and remove from the heat. Toss to evenly coat and sprinkle with cinnamon and sea salt, set aside to cool.

Honest tip: You can do both of these steps up to two days in advance and also double or triple the recipe so you have multiple snacks ready to go!

Once you are ready to eat, spoon the chia mixture into the bottom of your glass, top with berries and then the seed mixture and repeat. Garnish with a dash of cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup or simply enjoy as is!

Pictured in a glass to-go container, for a simple packed snack idea.

Check out some other fun uses for my favorite seeds below:

• Hemp Seeds – use as crust on white fish, sprinkle on top of your favorite smoothie bowl, add to cold or hot cereals, or toss into salads.

• Flaxseeds – add to your smoothie or pancake mix, make a mixture of 1 tablespoon ground flax to 2 tablespoons water and use as egg replacement to make your baking recipe vegan, sprinkle flax on your oatmeal, use in place of breadcrumbs to top roasted broccoli or mac and cheese.

• Chia seeds – soak 3 tablespoons in 1 cup of almond milk for overnight chia pudding, add to smoothies or use as a thickener for homemade jams.